Michael Knowles defends colonialism at Vanderbilt, arguing that the victors of history shape its course
Leftists Accuse “History’s Victors” of Colonialism, Says Conservative Commentator
According to conservative commentator Michael Knowles, accusations of colonialism are often used by leftists to smear the accomplishments of “history’s victors” – great men and civilizations. Knowles, the host of a popular podcast at The Daily Wire, recently delivered a captivating speech defending colonists, colonialism, and settlements at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Knowles began his lecture by highlighting the modern state of Israel as a timely example. He argued that Israel, currently engaged in a conflict with the terror group Hamas, has been labeled as “freedom fighters” and de-colonizers by some. However, Knowles pointed out that the Israeli state was largely built through settlement and colonization during the early 20th century.
Challenging the notion that Israel is a colonizer, Knowles emphasized that every nation can be accused of colonialism if one looks far enough back in history. He argued that applying an anti-colonialist standard equally would render no nation exempt from such accusations.
Knowles went on to highlight the historical reality that all regimes throughout history have been established by settlers and colonizers in some form. He humorously referenced Adam in the Garden of Eden, who also had assistance in the process of human creation.
Drawing from American history, Knowles pointed out colonialist endeavors dating back to Christopher Columbus’ voyages to the Americas. He used the example of the Black Hills in South Dakota, which were declared by the Supreme Court in 1980 to have been illegally taken from the Lakota Sioux tribe by the United States.
Knowles challenged the impractical expectations that arise from an extreme anti-colonialist mindset by questioning whether the U.S. government should pay a billion dollars to the Lakota Sioux or the Cheyenne, considering the complex history of land acquisition and conquest between these Native American tribes.
Knowles also argued that in many instances, acts of colonization and expansion have conquered cultures that were far worse, such as the Aztecs who practiced human sacrifices. He contended that the best version of colonialism is one that instills Christian values.
In conclusion, Knowles warned against dismissing Christian nationalism and Western conquest as inherently negative, suggesting that alternative forms of conquest may be far worse. He urged critics to consider the positive aspects of settlement, colonialism, and conquest, such as the promotion of love for enemies rather than violence.
Why does Knowles criticize the tendency of leftists to judge past actions through a modern lens, and what does he argue is lost in this approach
Xplained that the Jewish people have a deep historical and religious connection to the land of Israel. He emphasized that Israel’s establishment as a nation was rooted in a desire for self-determination and a haven for a persecuted people. Knowles argued that the accusation of colonialism only serves to undermine the legitimate aspirations of the Jewish people and their right to a homeland.
Knowles then broadened his argument, extending it to other historical cases often labeled as colonialism. He contended that the building of great civilizations, such as the Roman Empire or the British Empire, were not acts of oppressive colonization, but rather the result of remarkable human achievement, innovation, and progress. According to Knowles, these civilizations were responsible for advancements in governance, infrastructure, and culture that have shaped the world we know today.
Knowles criticized the tendency of leftists to judge the actions of the past through a modern lens, failing to appreciate the historical context and complexities. He argued that this simplistic and reductionist approach ignores the contributions made by these ”history’s victors” and the immense benefits that have been derived as a result of their endeavors.
Furthermore, Knowles contended that the accusations of colonialism often come from a position of moral superiority, with leftists asserting that their ideology holds the only acceptable views on social justice and equality. He argued that this self-righteousness blinds them to the nuances of historical events and inhibits meaningful dialogue and understanding.
In conclusion, Knowles asserted that accusations of colonialism are frequently wielded as a weapon by leftists to undermine the accomplishments of “history’s victors” and delegitimize the idea of progress and human achievement. He urged listeners to critically evaluate these accusations, consider the historical context, and recognize the contributions made by past generations towards the society we live in today.
Knowles’ speech at Vanderbilt University offers a provocative perspective on the controversy surrounding colonialism and the intentions behind accusations of colonization. While his views may be contentious, they highlight the importance of nuanced historical analysis and the dangers of oversimplification in understanding complex historical events.
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